Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism

Hannah paused, considering her options.

With her years of experience in the industry, she saw a different perspective. "If we can't get the lead role, then securing the second lead will suffice," she suggested.

Hattie balked at the idea. "What?! The second lead? Do you want me to play second fiddle to Zelena? Absolutely not!"

Hannah calmly explained, "Hattie, this isn't the time to be stubborn. The second lead in this script is just as captivating. If you perform well, you could even win Best Supporting Actress, a highly prestigious honor." Hattie remained resistant. "But I don't want to play a supporting role."

Hannah countered, "Then you'll have to give up on this script entirely. The other scripts I've seen aren't nearly as good."

Hattie was cornered.

Hannah continued, her voice earnest, "In my opinion, there's no real difference between the lead and the second lead. As long as the character is well-written and memorable, your scenes with Zelena will leave a lasting impression on the audience. If you outshine her, won't that be even better?

"I played supporting roles when I was starting out. And look at me now; the lead actresses from those days have long retired, but I'm still active in the industry. Don't be so stubborn." Outshining Zelena Blake?

The prospect appealed to Hattie, but she still struggled to overcome the mental hurdle of playing a supporting role.

With a sigh, she relented.

"Alright, I'll think about it."

The rivalry between Zelena and Hattie's teams quickly spread throughout the industry, reaching Violeta's ears.

Time flew by, and 'Nirvana and Rebirth' had already aired half of its episodes.

One evening, Danielle invited Violeta out for dinner.

After wrapping up her current project, Violeta planned to take a brief two-day break.

On the night of the dinner, Aster brought up the highly controversial "The Chosen One" trilogy while riding in the car.

"I heard this series is adapted from an online novel with purchased rights.

"Zelena and Hattie's teams are fighting over it.

"Initially, the lead role was given to Hattie, but now there's a lot of buzz online saying Zelena is the perfect choice for the lead in 'The Chosen One,' while Hattie isn't suitable.

"After all, Zelena's first role was in a costume drama, so she does have an edge over Hattie in terms of looks and makeup. Hattie's first role was in a youth idol drama."

Eugene chimed in, "I've read some of the script. It's quite good, and the production team is decent.

"It should turn out to be a great series."

Violeta was leaning back in her seat, busy responding to messages on her phone.

Kaylee's movie, "The Lies in Winter," which she had filmed the previous year, had recently wrapped up post-production. Kaylee had returned to Quinston the previous month, and a management company had approached her with a contract offer. Kaylee was unsure about the decision and had messaged Violeta for advice.

Once "The Lies in Winter" was released and scheduled, Kaylee would officially debut in the entertainment industry.

Though Kaylee's debut was a year and a half later than Violeta's, starting with a movie was still a promising beginning.

Since getting into the car, Violeta had been focused on responding to Kaylee's messages, tuning out the ongoing conversation. Eugene turned to Violeta and said, "Beauty, Zelena and Hattie are at each other's throats now.

"Your previous assessment of them was spot on. When their interests clash, the facade of their friendship crumbles." Violeta simply hummed in agreement.

Aster inquired, "What's Ms. White up to?"

"Replying to a friend's message," Violeta responded. She then asked, "Eugene, have you heard of SkyTune Media?"

Eugene furrowed his brow. "SkyTune Media? Never heard of them. Why?"

Violeta explained, "A friend of mine has been approached by them for a contract. She's asking for my advice, but I don't know much about them, so I thought I'd ask you."

Eugene advised, "If it's a new artist,

it's best to avoid small studios. Even

a mid-sized company would be preferable and less risky. Honestly, only big companies are truly reliable if you want to avoid being scammed."

Aster nodded in agreement. "That's true. Before I became an artist's assistant, I almost got tricked by some shady small studios into becoming a live streamer!

"They make all sorts of promises

before you sign, but once you're

locked in, everything changes. If you

want to leave, you have to pay a hefty penalty. Many of these so-called media companies make

their money by trapping people into

breaking contracts, often

demanding millions. It's a

frightening situation."

Violeta listened thoughtfully and nodded. "You're right. Signing a contract is a serious decision that shouldn't be taken lightly."